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[EatChildren]

JRPG character archetypes are, to me, no different to the Western 'bald space marine' and 'half naked femme fatale'. They're both boring and evident of creative bankruptcy in character writing. Too often they follow the same narrative arcs, share the same relationships, and have the same developments before the credits roll. I cant connect to the dumb meathead silliness of Gears of War for the same reasons I cannot connect to the angsty whiny teenager, the tsundere party member introduced a third through the game, and the embarrassingly virginal 'waifu' love interest. 99% of the time it's shit.

But it's also contextual, and that's where the remaining 1% fits in. Sometimes these characters work, when they themselves still have redeemable, interesting qualities, or their narrative is self aware enough to warrant their inclusion. The meatheads in Space Marine had to be meatheads. Same for Bulletstorm. And I like Xenoblade's characters because despite being fairly typical archetypes, they avoided the excessively bloated tropes of whining, emoness, and other severely dislikeable characteristics. Honestly, I thought a lot of Xenoblade's characters were strong. As in, they were strong willed. They were confident people who got things done, and only worried about real issues. They were adults.

A lot of my dislike for JRPG/anime archetypes stems from Japan's obsession with teen and child characters though, which for me make the worst protagonists ever.

 

[BY2K]

So, what's the worse scenario for Nintendo if Microsoft announces the Xbox 8?

 

[walking fiend]

So, what's the worse scenario for Nintendo if Microsoft announces the Xbox 8?

Still making more profit than PS3+360 combined?

 

[z0m3le]

So, what's the worse scenario for Nintendo if Microsoft announces the Xbox 8?

A delayed Wii U, that takes us to the end of 2013, without the head start, Wii U will not see the developer support shift as much, which is what it needs most. IMO

 

[BY2K]

Why would it be delayed?

 

[EatChildren]

So, what's the worse scenario for Nintendo if Microsoft announces the Xbox 8?

Worst case scenario? Microsoft shows off the Xbox 8 in full force, including tech demos and games that obliterate the very best visuals shown on the Wii U. They show how heavily integrated Kinect and social networking is into the experience, along with strides made to LIVE and digital distribution, further proving how much of a dinosaur Nintendo is in that field. Sizzlereel/list of developers and franchises gamers can expect. Launching earlier than expected, with an optional contract based pay model that has an entry fee lower than the Wii U's upfront fee.

 

[blu]

Dream scenario with somewhat realistic grounding:

- Retro put back on Metroid, developing a new Prime, with an in-house engine that takes full advantage of the Wii U's hardware. Big budget. Focus on Wii Remote + Nunchuck controls versus the Wii U pad gimmicks

- Nintendo pushing relationships with independent Western developers to help create new IPs that appeal to this market, though without devolving into clones. Re-experimenting with both Eternal Darkness (action/horror) and Geist (first person shooter).

- Open arms policy to digital distribution, especially towards small indy devs. Plan for the eStore to be 'the' home for indy devs, part of diversifying the Nintendo portfolio. Cheaper devkits, plenty of support, and minimal restrictions holding them back. Repairing broken relationships.

- A brief sizzle reel and list of dev/games at E3 in regards to third party support. Understanding that they need to be mentioned, but should in no way be the focus of their show. Bigger effort on showing new, unique stuff.

The bolded part will be this gen's highlight for nintendo, I believe. Or shall I say, I hope.

 

[walking fiend]

Worst case scenario? Microsoft shows off the Xbox 8 in full force, including tech demos and games that obliterate the very best visuals shown on the Wii U. They show how heavily integrated Kinect and social networking is into the experience, along with strides made to LIVE and digital distribution, further proving how much of a dinosaur Nintendo is in that field. Sizzlereel/list of developers and franchises gamers can expect. Launching earlier than expected, with an optional contract based pay model that has an entry fee lower than the Wii U's upfront fee.

That's something probable to happen, and expectable tbh

However, for it not to actually make another example of it like PS3 was, WiiU should be pretty underpowered and very lacking in terms of online

edit: ah, fuck you Nintendo ninjas; it's almost 3 weeks till the SECOND time Wii U being shown at e3, and we still got almost nothing

 

[EatChildren]

That's something probable to happen, and expectable tbh

However, for it not to actually make another example of it like PS3 was, WiiU should be pretty underpowered and very lacking in terms of online

I expect it to happen eventually, but not this year. I figured BY2K was talking about E3, with Microsoft fighting with Nintendo for next generation buzz. Unless Nintendo had something stupidly incredible up their sleeve, the worst case scenario would be pretty grim.

 

[BY2K]

Would be kind of sad and great at the same time if Microsoft downright announces the next Xbox this E3. They denied doing so so many times this year, it would be like the worst kept secret, but at the same time the best kept secret.

Nintendo pretty much gave in and announced they would reveal the Wii U last year.

EDIT: Yes, I was talking about E3.

 

[IdeaMan]

Worst case scenario? Microsoft shows off the Xbox 8 in full force, including tech demos and games that obliterate the very best visuals shown on the Wii U. They show how heavily integrated Kinect and social networking is into the experience, along with strides made to LIVE and digital distribution, further proving how much of a dinosaur Nintendo is in that field. Sizzlereel/list of developers and franchises gamers can expect. Launching earlier than expected, with an optional contract based pay model that has an entry fee lower than the Wii U's upfront fee.

Very best case scenario for Microsoft, it would involve first-party "software" (limited demonstrations, teasers, target-renders presented as the expected visual content, maybe small demos, etc.) as from what i know of a few third-parties studios, they are far from being able to show anything substantial in 1 month for this support. But maybe the system presentation, some inhouse technological videos, etc, is a possibility yes, to steal some lights from the Wii U.

 

[Bert]

Dream scenario:

Multiple pad support and extra pads at a reasonable price.
OnLive functionality built in
Complete Nintendo back catalogue available on the store at launch with an all you can eat subscription option.
Brand new IP of the quality of Pikmin
Pikmin 3
Full flash browser available at all times on pad.
Blackberry tablet style virtualisation of Android apps streamed to the pad
Open system to enable access to third party home automation, home audio, etc setups through the pad (not needed if it can run android apps)
New Mario at launch that showcases the pad use in traditional games
Latest FIFA/COD/whatever with definitive versions at least until the PS4/720 comes along
FPS that ignores the TV And uses only the pad gun accessory so you have to physically turn around to look and shoot
Proper online system that integrates with FB and other social media as well as in game video, text and voice chat. System wide achievements and system that matches game settings to your preferences across games. Recommendation and ask a friend system to recommend games and help when you get stuck.
Blu-ray drive and full home media integration with UI along the lines of XBMC, even better skinnable Including scraping of meta data and reviews etc for entire game catalogue.
Voice recognition in the pad and face recognition from the camera for automatic login.
A good AR game at launch, with cross compatibility with 3DS.
Mobile apps that expand the concept of Street Pass to a wider audience.

In reality I'd be excited for any one of those.

 

[AntMurda]

The first-party releases are going to much more balanced this generation. I expect much more of a trichotomy;

1. Enthusiast Nintendo Market
2. Enthusiasts Non-Nintendo Market
3. Casual Market

One big change is going to be creating content for the enthusiast non-nintendo market. A selection of gaming dollars pouring millions in yearly Call of Duty, Assassins Creed, Halo, Grand Theft Auto. That is definitely going to be what Retro Studios is working on. Not something niche like Metroid Prime 4 or recreating a Zelda game. Their prime objective should be creating software for that market the Japanese studios struggle in.

 

[SolidSnakex]

Very best case scenario for Microsoft, it would involve first-party "software" (limited demonstrations, teasers, target-renders presented as the expected visual content, maybe small demos, etc.) as from what i know of a few third-parties studios, they are far from being able to show anything substantial in 1 month for this support. But maybe the system presentation, some inhouse technological videos, etc, is a possibility yes, to steal some lights from the Wii U.

If it's that early then they also run the risk of doing something like the Wii U where they announce it and it just leaves people with a "That's it?" feeling. The 360 has a solid lineup this year, so I still expect them to ride it out with Forza, HALO 4 and a load a major third party software. There's nothing stopping them from announcing it early next year at some event. They'd obviously be able to have a much stronger showing then and their support for the 360 would likely be drying up around that time.

 

[ClovingWestbrook]

Dream scenario E3-

*SNES games coming to 3DS e-store and first up is LttP 3D. I'd buy for $20. I'm serious.
*3DS Zelda is 2D top down LttP sequel.
*New LttP 2 3ds special edition bundle.
*Wii U is a Steam Box.
*Wii U will be to the Xbox 3 and PS4 what PS2 was to GC and Xbox in terms of power under the hood.
*online infrastructure is amazing. Unified. Account based. Every game will have demos like the 360. Opened up for small devs. Free updates for devs like on Steam. Amazing UI.
*SMB4 is a true 2D sequel to SMB3 or SMWorld.
*A new 2D Rygar side scrolling/top down Rygar
*New name that doesn't include Wii or U.
*all Wii titles will be upscaled and have UPad support on Wii U
*Gabe appears as a surprise guest with a HL3 Wii U tattoo.

Thats all. Not asking too much. Pretty hopeful it will all come true.

Spoiler

99% of it won't and I will cry

 

[walking fiend]

I expect it to happen eventually, but not this year. I figured BY2K was talking about E3, with Microsoft fighting with Nintendo for next generation buzz. Unless Nintendo had something stupidly incredible up their sleeve, the worst case scenario would be pretty grim.

well, we know somethings:

Kinect hasn't really put out a good show, particularly very bad software penetration and specially outside of US; and core gamers are already fed up with their focus on Kinect

Wii has already been used a lot for casual online features such as netflix

DD hasn't really been that great on 360 (compared to what Nintendo is fighting with on handheld front against iOS)

Graphically, I do not imagine it being able to put out anything better than what is currently achievable on high end PCs



---
So, overall, I don't see Microsoft being able to do anything beside more of the same.

Though, maybe it is because I have been pretty much sheltered from console wars and people over the net are still vibrantly fighting over PS3 vs 360 graphics, etc.

---
Also, another thing is the probability of people being blown away by at least some 1st party software; I imagine at least what Nintendo EAD, Retro and Monolith has been working on to be pretty interesting in terms of technological achievement


---
I guess this E3, it will pretty much depend on the Nintendo itself rather than what competition will be doing

- Is Wii U really as underpowerd as 360?
- Is the controller wireless functioning properly? have they managed to make 2 of them work?
- Have they advanced on the online front? is there going to be a unified account or are the downloads going to be tied to the system once again?
- Have their 1st party teams being able to catch up with current tech?


What I believe, is that for example if Nintendo internal studios have not been able to keep up with the current tech, hence not being able to put into use anything over 360/PS3 level in good use; then there's quite a lot of chance that Nintendo has forsaken 3rd party clamor for a feature full hardware and had gone with something quite basic.

So, I guess if we see Wii U being a non-show, it will be only because of Nintendo bringing it upon themselves.

 

[Shadowlink]

So, what's everyone's imagined "heaven on earth" scenario for E3? Imma thinking:

- New Super Mario WiiU (EAD Group No. 4)
- Pikmin 3 (EAD Group No. 4)
- The Legend of Zelda (Retro Studios)
- F-Zero (Monster Games)
- Star Fox (Kamiya / Platinum Games)
- Eternal Darkness 2 (Silicon Knights)
- Yoshi's Island (Good Feel)
- New 3D Mario? (EAD Tokyo)
- New Miyamoto IP?

Do we know if Good Feel received Wii U dev kits? I'm wondering why Nintendo hasn't purchased them yet.

 

[Linkup]

This is why i stressed so much on the context of my info, don't write laconic posts without details, and give the maximum explanations of nearly all the parameters involved, to avoid misinterpretations.

In my posts (main, addition 1, 2 and some others spread in the thread 3) pertaining to expected resolution of Wii U titles, it was always in a specific context, and above all, involving an ambitious utilization of the 480p padlet screen at the same time. It wasn't possible at the moment, in this particular environment, to take a pretty Xbox360 game not yet available, add another view of what the TV display on the 480p subscreen, and run the main content at 1080p. It doesn't exclude the event that with the latest dev kits, optimizations, tailored for the Wii U engines, first-party "magic", etc, etc, etc, we'll see some projects running at 1080p and including a three dimensional content rendered on the padlet. But the main part of the Wii U library should be at 720p though.

Reread those post of yours. Wii U has a GPU with hardware that can handle 5 streams and that obviously would make support for 4 Upads possible. Not sure which AMD/Ati card that aligns with or when they started doing 5-6 streams well, cause I imagine that arch/tech is in the GPU. To be honest aren't the 6000-7000 serius AMD GPUs best at it? Also it being Nintendo we are talking about here they certainly would not forget local multi. I wonder about one pad playing a game and the other watching a movie. This has family entertainment center written all over it.

Maybe not rendering to the TV source and render to two Upads, that shouldn't be a problem as it will be two 480p scenes. Now 4 Upads at 480p could still be a problem, but in the case of Mario Kart Wii U that someone was asking about, they could probably do it. Still the problem with that is going to be the fact of how it affects 3DS. Remember their was talk that the range had increased to a full floor perhaps. A 360 game in 720p with an additional 480p view is good news that I think most just ignored. All of this talk combined with the custom GPU talk is somewhat reassuring. I'm honestly starting to hope we get 360 level games at 720p 60fps with better shader usage, clearer textures, nicer lighting and virtually nothing on the Upad.

 

[IdeaMan]

If it's that early then they also run the risk of doing something like the Wii U where they announce it and it just leaves people with a "That's it?" feeling. The 360 has a solid lineup this year, so I still expect them to ride it out with Forza, HALO 4 and a load a major third party software. There's nothing stopping them from announcing it early next year at some event. They'd obviously be able to have a much stronger showing then and their support for the 360 would likely be drying up around that time.

I'm on this boat as well, i was just quoting that in a hypothetic event seeing Microsoft revealing its next Xbox, the content showed from third-parties (well, a few of them) will be very, very limited.

But there are middle grounds between a surprising revelation of their next hardware and a complete blackout on this subject, it's nearly certain we'll at least hear small things at E3 2012.

 

[walking fiend]

Reread those post of yours. Wii U has a GPU with hardware that can handle 5 streams and that obviously would make support for 4 Upads possible. Not sure which AMD/Ati card that aligns with or when they started doing 5-6 streams well, cause I imagine that arch/tech is in the GPU. To be honest aren't the 6000-7000 serius AMD GPUs best at it? Also it being Nintendo we are talking about here they certainly would not forget local multi. I wonder about one pad playing a game and the other watching a movie. This has family entertainment center written all over it.

Maybe not rendering to the TV source and render to two Upads, that shouldn't be a problem as it will be two 480p scenes. Now 4 Upads at 480p could still be a problem, but in the case of Mario Kart Wii U that someone was asking about, they could probably do it. Still the problem with that is going to be the fact of how it affects 3DS. Remember their was talk that the range had increased to a full floor perhaps. A 360 game in 720p with an additional 480p view is good news that I think most just ignored. All of this talk combined with the custom GPU talk is somewhat reassuring. I'm honestly starting to hope we get 360 level games at 720p 60fps with better shader usage, clearer textures, nicer lighting and virtually nothing on the Upad.

3DS?! Sorry, I lost you there!

Do we know if Good Feel received Wii U dev kits?

They practically have not made a game for 2 years since Epic Yarn; so I guess they have been pretty busy, and I guess no handheld game would have been enough to take this much of their time

 

[JoshuaJSlone]

Well, as long as we're dreaming, I can hope the stupid

Nintendo: "3D is only worthwhile without glasses!"
Sony: "3D is only worthwhile on home consoles!"

argument ends and Nintendo themselves are producing some Wii U games with native 3D support.

 

[DCKing]

Reread those post of yours. Wii U has a GPU with hardware that can handle 5 streams and that obviously would make support for 4 Upads possible. Not sure which AMD/Ati card that aligns with or when they started doing 5-6 streams well, cause I imagine that arch/tech is in the GPU. To be honest aren't the 6000-7000 serius AMD GPUs best at it? Also it being Nintendo we are talking about here they certainly would not forget local multi. I wonder about one pad playing a game and the other watching a movie. This has family entertainment center written all over it.

Just because AMD desktop cards have had a design goal to support 5 monitors does not mean that the Wii U GPU has had the same design goals. Furthermore, 'supporting' 5 different streams on the GPU itself means nothing if you don't have enough framebuffer to draw all images on.

All signs point to the Wii U having a 32 MB framebuffer. In a normal scenario, this is shared between a 1280x720 main screen and a 852x480 second screen. Adding one extra screen will already tax the resolution capability and AA possibilities on the other screens and ruin the space for whatever other graphics rescources are (hypothetically) stored on the fast memory. Depending on how the GPU is designed, adding these extra screens will not be trivial at all.

Add to that that the radio hardware Nintendo has developed has to cope with these extra screens as well. I don't think four Upads is going to happen at all, and even using two screens would stretch Nintendo's flexibility at this point.

 

[EmCeeGramr]

i had a dumb wiiu at e3 dream thanks to you people

 

[Shadowlink]

They practically have not made a game for 2 years since Epic Yarn; so I guess they have been pretty busy, and I guess no handheld game would have been enough to take this much of their time

True! I'm hoping they announce Yoshi's Island. The question is whether it will be on Wii U or 3DS.

 

[CrunchyFrog]

I find it interesting in that even in some "realistic" scenarios people expect to see a new Zelda game at E3. We JUST got SS 6 months ago and OOT 3DS 5 months before that, not to mention Nintendo has surely been prepping other titles for launch in since before and throughout the same timeframe. They don't have or likely need Zelda atm, that tech demo was just a tech demo, like every other zelda tech demo before it. The first we may see of any new Wii U Zelda is next E3, and the soonest it'll release is probably summer 2014 or later.

Now a 3DS Zelda however, that I could see being teased/shown off for a Spring 2013 release this year. But I'm still not terribly certain seeing as there's plenty more 1st party 3DS titles to be shown off which have already been announced: Super Mario 4, Luigi's Mansion 2, Paper Mario 3DS, Animal Crossing, Oni Training, surprise FE localization maybe. I'd be more willing to bet on that Donkey Kong 3D making a surprise reveal than a new Zelda being shown off (though I was honestly caught off guard by that Super Mario 4 offhand investor announcement so quickly). It's another case where they likely don't have it and even if they did they don't need to show it off yet.

 

[BurntPork]

Worst case scenario? Microsoft shows off the Xbox 8 in full force, including tech demos and games that obliterate the very best visuals shown on the Wii U. They show how heavily integrated Kinect and social networking is into the experience, along with strides made to LIVE and digital distribution, further proving how much of a dinosaur Nintendo is in that field. Sizzlereel/list of developers and franchises gamers can expect. Launching earlier than expected, with an optional contract based pay model that has an entry fee lower than the Wii U's upfront fee.

I really don't see the contract model taking off as well as GAF thinks it will. It works for phones because people need phones and you have to pay a bill anyway. The same can't be said of a console, especially since you need to buy games for it as well. I don't see many people about needing to pay yet another bill. It hasn't worked for Android tablets, so I can't see any scenario where it works for consoles.

 

[BY2K]

I still don't see them announcing it this year, that said.

 

[Hoo-doo]

I have a feeling that the last 3 pages of this thread will be hilarious to revisit a few years down the line.

 

[EatChildren]

I really don't see the contract model taking off as well as GAF thinks it will. It works for phones because people need phones and you have to pay a bill anyway. The same can't be said of a console, especially since you need to buy games for it as well. I don't see many people about needing to pay yet another bill. It hasn't worked for Android tablets, so I can't see any scenario where it works for consoles.

I think it can work, but it's hugely dependant on the market, especially competition, and how said system was presented to the general public.

Like, the best case example for it working would be Sony lagging behind, leaving Microsoft to launch before the PlayStation 4, in a market with only Nintendo. A market that largely supported the Wii U with current generation ports and games that look pretty much on par with everything we're used to. Hypothetically, if Microsoft launched with a system that looked significantly better than the Wii U, with a strong line-up and good sizzle reels, of titles that may not be possible on the Wii U at all (or severely downscaled if they are). Huge LIVE focus that markets the system as a really important media platform, feature rich, lots of benefits for being connected to LIVE, etc.

Launch the platform with a contract model entry price lower than the Wii U and then, maybe, it would be attractive to consumers after a new console.

The key would be strongly distancing the platform from the Wii U, in a way that makes the new platform look much better, with more services and perceived better build quality. A lower entry fee than the Wii U is the first hook. If they think LIVE is basically essential to the experience, and have no problem paying ~US$15 a month or whatever, then the contract suddenly doesn't look so bad. "I'd buy LIVE anyway, so why not pay cheaper now instead of the more expensive Wii U?".

I don't think they'll do that mind you, and even then I'm not entirely sure it would work, but I think there's an attractive recipe there.

 

[walking fiend]

I find it interesting in that even in some "realistic" scenarios people expect to see a new Zelda game at E3. We JUST got SS 6 months ago and OOT 3DS 5 months before that, not to mention Nintendo has surely been prepping other titles for launch in since before and throughout the same timeframe. They don't have or likely need Zelda atm, that tech demo was just a tech demo, like every other zelda tech demo before it. The first we may see of any new Wii U Zelda is next E3, and the soonest it'll release is probably summer 2014 or later.

Now a 3DS Zelda however, that I could see being teased/shown off for a Spring 2013 release this year. But I'm still not terribly certain seeing as there's plenty more 1st party 3DS titles to be shown off which have already been announced: Super Mario 4, Luigi's Mansion 2, Paper Mario 3DS, Animal Crossing, Oni Training, surprise FE localization maybe. I'd be more willing to bet on that Donkey Kong 3D making a surprise reveal than a new Zelda being shown off (though I was honestly caught off guard by that Super Mario 4 offhand investor announcement so quickly). It's another case where they likely don't have it and even if they did they don't need to show it off yet.

I agree. Particularly, considering the timing of Retro being free to work on their new game and that it was while people were still working on SS, I am pretty certain that should mean whatever Retro is working on isn't a console Zelda game with the original team totally occupied by SS.

And if Retro has not been working on a console Zelda, the list of possible candidates for developer of a console Zelda will be pretty thin.

 

[IdeaMan]

Reread those post of yours. Wii U has a GPU with hardware that can handle 5 streams and that obviously would make support for 4 Upads possible. Not sure which AMD/Ati card that aligns with or when they started doing 5-6 streams well, cause I imagine that arch/tech is in the GPU. To be honest aren't the 6000-7000 serius AMD GPUs best at it? Also it being Nintendo we are talking about here they certainly would not forget local multi. I wonder about one pad playing a game and the other watching a movie. This has family entertainment center written all over it.

Maybe not rendering to the TV source and render to two Upads, that shouldn't be a problem as it will be two 480p scenes. Now 4 Upads at 480p could still be a problem, but in the case of Mario Kart Wii U that someone was asking about, they could probably do it. Still the problem with that is going to be the fact of how it affects 3DS. Remember their was talk that the range had increased to a full floor perhaps. A 360 game in 720p with an additional 480p view is good news that I think most just ignored. All of this talk combined with the custom GPU talk is somewhat reassuring. I'm honestly starting to hope we get 360 level games at 720p 60fps with better shader usage, clearer textures, nicer lighting and virtually nothing on the Upad.

The hardware would be capable of calculating 4 not too intricate 480p (or sub480 upres) content, with let's say a map on the TV. It's a way to say that multiple DRC support concern doesn't originate from a lack of hardware power, calculations capabilities. But the concern, if it's still valid, comes from other sources (the encoding equipment could be one after talking with wsippel, and others technical limitations but not related to the system power).

 

[BurntPork]

I think it can work, but it's hugely dependant on the market, especially competition, and how said system was presented to the general public.

Like, the best case example for it working would be Sony lagging behind, leaving Microsoft to launch before the PlayStation 4, in a market with only Nintendo. A market that largely supported the Wii U with current generation ports and games that look pretty much on par with everything we're used to. Hypothetically, if Microsoft launched with a system that looked significantly better than the Wii U, with a strong line-up and good sizzle reels, of titles that may not be possible on the Wii U at all (or severely downscaled if they are). Huge LIVE focus that markets the system as a really important media platform, feature rich, lots of benefits for being connected to LIVE, etc.

Launch the platform with a contract model entry price lower than the Wii U and then, maybe, it would be attractive to consumers after a new console.

The key would be strongly distancing the platform from the Wii U, in a way that makes the new platform look much better, with more services and perceived better build quality. A lower entry fee than the Wii U is the first hook. If they think LIVE is basically essential to the experience, and have no problem paying ~US$15 a month or whatever, then the contract suddenly doesn't look so bad. "I'd buy LIVE anyway, so why not pay cheaper now instead of the more expensive Wii U?".

I don't think they'll do that mind you, and even then I'm not entirely sure it would work, but I think there's an attractive recipe there.

But that's the thing. It's more expensive than LIVE, and almost no one pays for LIVE monthly. It really seems like more of a niche idea. It's something aimed at casuals, yet casuals seem like the ones who would be least interested.

 

[ClovingWestbrook]

OT but thinking about the LttP 3DS edition I mentioned in my dream E3 post has made me want to open ny Zelda 25th 3DS SE but I shouldnt. I hate temptation.

 

[Redford]

Well, I wouldn't imagine people would do a contract for a 360, but next gen console? Maybe.

 

[BlackJace]

Well, I wouldn't imagine people would do a contract for a 360, but next gen console? Maybe.

Why? People have enough yearly/monthly contracts to deal with, and a game console seems like a superfluous thing to add.

 

[Luigison]

What is the likelihood of:

1. The Wii U controller screen being 3D like the 3DS?
2. Having a digital TV tuner in the controller?
3. Having TV remote/media center controller function?
4. Having a Wii remote+ and wireless nunchuk packed in?
5. A more robust achievement system along the lines of the 3DS?
6. Augmented reality similar to Johnny Lee's tech demos?
7. Multiple colors at launch?
8. Angry Birds with Nintendo property?
9. Excite Trucks 3?
10. Four Swords online?
11. Animal Crossing online with integrated achievements, weather, trailers, etc. like Playstation Home.
12. Using 3DS systems with Wii U like GBAs were used with GCN for Four Swords, but wireless (and online)?
13. Steam?
14. Transfer of Wii VC titles?
15. A new Balance Board with vibration and bioelectrical impedance analysis sensors for body (fat) composition?
16. Vitality sensor used somehow?
17. Changing color slot illumination?
18. Being able to log into your Wii U account at a friends house and have full access to your digital downloads?
19. Achievements tied to Club Nintendo?
20. Full game installs with code from purchase (digital or disc) making used games useless without an unused code.

 

[Redford]

Why? People have enough yearly/monthly contracts to deal with, and a game console seems like a superfluous thing to add.

If they cost nearly $400 dollars, why not? If you don't have the funds up front, like many people, you'll be paying credit anyways.

I'm not sure I understand how this works... Do you pay indefinitely to own the console after the initial $99 or is it like a computer or car where you pay monthly instalments until it is payed off?

 

[-Pyromaniac-]

What is the likelihood of:

1. The Wii U controller screen being 3D like the 3DS?
2. Having a digital TV tuner in the controller?
3. Having TV remote/media center controller function?
4. Having a Wii remote+ and wireless nunchuk packed in?
5. A more robust achievement system along the lines of the 3DS?
6. Augmented reality similar to Johnny Lee's tech demos?
7. Multiple colors at launch?
8. Angry Birds with Nintendo property?
9. Excite Trucks 3?
10. Four Swords online?
11. Animal Crossing online with integrated achievements, weather, trailers, etc. like Playstation Home.
12. Using 3DS systems with Wii U like GBAs were used with GCN for Four Swords, but wireless (and online)?
13. Steam?
14. Transfer of Wii VC titles?
15. A new Balance Board with vibration and bioelectrical impedance analysis sensors for body (fat) composition?
16. Vitality sensor used somehow?
17. Changing color slot illumination?
18. Being able to log into your Wii U account at a friends house and have full access to your digital downloads?
19. Achievements tied to Club Nintendo?
20. Full game installs with code from purchase (digital or disc) making used games useless without an unused code.

1) no
2) no
3) could be maybe in a way
4) possibly
5) hopefully, I'd say yes. Would be a big omission
6) yes
7) yes
8) no
9) no
10) no
11) no
12) no
13) in some capacity maybe, like PS3 has
14) yes
15) no
16) no
17) yes
18) like PS3 has maybe
19) no
20) no

that's what I think

 

[BY2K]

What is the likelihood of:

1. The Wii U controller screen being 3D like the 3DS?
2. Having a digital TV tuner in the controller?
3. Having TV remote/media center controller function?
4. Having a Wii remote+ and wireless nunchuk packed in?
5. A more robust achievement system along the lines of the 3DS?
6. Augmented reality similar to Johnny Lee's tech demos?
7. Multiple colors at launch?
8. Angry Birds with Nintendo property?
9. Excite Trucks 3?
10. Four Swords online?
11. Animal Crossing online with integrated achievements, weather, trailers, etc. like Playstation Home.
12. Using 3DS systems with Wii U like GBAs were used with GCN for Four Swords, but wireless (and online)?
13. Steam?
14. Transfer of Wii VC titles?
15. A new Balance Board with vibration and bioelectrical impedance analysis sensors for body (fat) composition?
16. Vitality sensor used somehow?
17. Changing color slot illumination?
18. Being able to log into your Wii U account at a friends house and have full access to your digital downloads?
19. Achievements tied to Club Nintendo?
20. Full game installs with code from purchase (digital or disc) making used games useless without an unused code.

1. Nope.
2. Nope.
3. Noooooope.
4. Why not? Can't cost Nintendo that much since the tech in 6 years old.
5. The accomplishment of Mii Plaza points to an achievements system (probably called accomplishment) for the Wii U, IMO, but we can't be sure.
6. Who?
7. None.
8. Really?
9. Not anytime soon.
10. Late in the console's cycle, maybe.
11. Let's just get an Animal Crossing game that isn't a copy/paste of the last one, k?
12. Unlikely.
13. At least try to list some things believable.
14. That's more like it. I'd say if the DSi --- >­ 3DS transfer happened, Wii --- > Wii U could happen too.
15. With what?
16. I don't see it coming back.
17. Nope.
18. Iiiiiisssssh. Nintendo just got in on the whole DD thing, let's not go too fast here.
19. That I could see.
20. Do you want Nintendo to kill itself?

 

[wsippel]

And just what I completely despise. FPS get a lot of flack for their lack of innovation, and so should the JRPG. Also given how many JRPG conventions Xenoblade is breaking or modernizing it was disheartening to see that in the story department they kept the same old convoluted mess that plagues so many JRPG stories.

And yes, Shulk has to be one of the worst main characters in history. This guy was unlikable from the get go, and even more so after he met a certain someone.

Except there's absolutely nothing messy or convoluted about the story, it simply requires a little attention and thinking. And there's nothing wrong with Shulk. If anything, many of the Last Story characters are cardboard cutouts, especially the horrible Square-like protagonist.

 

[Dreamwriter]

I find it interesting in that even in some "realistic" scenarios people expect to see a new Zelda game at E3. We JUST got SS 6 months ago and OOT 3DS 5 months before that, not to mention Nintendo has surely been prepping other titles for launch in since before and throughout the same timeframe. They don't have or likely need Zelda atm, that tech demo was just a tech demo, like every other zelda tech demo before it. The first we may see of any new Wii U Zelda is next E3, and the soonest it'll release is probably summer 2014 or later.

Nintendo is releasing a whole new game console, they have to convince people it's worth buying. Part of that is showing what the future will bring, and as Zelda is one of Nintendo's biggest franchises, yes they do need it, badly. And Nintendo tends to show console Zelda games 2 years in advance, so if it's getting a 2014 release, we should be seeing it in roughly 3 weeks.

 

[CrunchyFrog]

What is the likelihood of:

1. The Wii U controller screen being 3D like the 3DS? Not a chance due to cost. Also Nintendo's comments on touch screwing up 3D w/ regards to 3DS' singular 3D screen
2. Having a digital TV tuner in the controller? Almost definitely considering footage we've seen already showing such.
3. Having TV remote/media center controller function? See above, but yes.
4. Having a Wii remote+ and wireless nunchuk packed in? I'm 50/50 on this one. On one hand the golden rule says noone ever supports out of the box peripherals. On the other, maybe they're banking on everyone having one already so they can't drop the price/raise profits.
5. A more robust achievement system along the lines of the 3DS? More robust? no. But probably something similar. They've made a statement or two regarding their reticence to achievements but I can't be arsed to find em.
6. Augmented reality similar to Johnny Lee's tech demos? Not likely in the sense you're thinking, since it requires a camera on the back. Unless a 2nd camera is a new secret feature. But maybe
7. Multiple colors at launch? 2 at most, has been the status quo for a while.
8. Angry Birds with Nintendo property? With nintendo property? No. An angry Birds game on it eventually? Plausible
9. Excite Trucks 3? Possibly, but I doubt it.
10. Four Swords online? Not likely.
11. Animal Crossing online with integrated achievements, weather, trailers, etc. like Playstation Home. Not likely, gotta finish the 3ds one first.
12. Using 3DS systems with Wii U like GBAs were used with GCN for Four Swords, but wireless (and online)? Almost definitely, and has been talked about before IIRC.
13. Steam? In my wildest dreams it is a distant possibility.
14. Transfer of Wii VC titles? Hopefully, and considering their program for DS-3DS eshop purchases, I'd say definitely possible.
15. A new Balance Board with vibration and bioelectrical impedance analysis sensors for body (fat) composition? No, unneeded (unless VS has gone into it)
16. Vitality sensor used somehow? Probably. It's my bet on the new controller feature.
17. Changing color slot illumination? Probably.
18. Being able to log into your Wii U account at a friends house and have full access to your digital downloads? Nope.
19. Achievements tied to Club Nintendo? Maybe
20. Full game installs with code from purchase (digital or disc) making used games useless without an unused code. Eh, I'm not so sure Nintendo ahs that many issue with piracy that they'd do this, but I suppose anything's possible.

.

 

[BurntPork]

What is the likelihood of:

1. The Wii U controller screen being 3D like the 3DS?
2. Having a digital TV tuner in the controller?
3. Having TV remote/media center controller function?
4. Having a Wii remote+ and wireless nunchuk packed in?
5. A more robust achievement system along the lines of the 3DS?
6. Augmented reality similar to Johnny Lee's tech demos?
7. Multiple colors at launch?
8. Angry Birds with Nintendo property?
9. Excite Trucks 3?
10. Four Swords online?
11. Animal Crossing online with integrated achievements, weather, trailers, etc. like Playstation Home.
12. Using 3DS systems with Wii U like GBAs were used with GCN for Four Swords, but wireless (and online)?
13. Steam?
14. Transfer of Wii VC titles?
15. A new Balance Board with vibration and bioelectrical impedance analysis sensors for body (fat) composition?
16. Vitality sensor used somehow?
17. Changing color slot illumination?
18. Being able to log into your Wii U account at a friends house and have full access to your digital downloads?
19. Achievements tied to Club Nintendo?
20. Full game installs with code from purchase (digital or disc) making used games useless without an unused code.

1. zero
2. HIGHLY unlikely
3. possible
4. possible
5. could go either way
6. unlikely
7. not enough info to say anything either way
8. oh please no
9. could be
10. doubt it
11. doubt it
12. very likely (what do you mean with the online part?)
13. as the online store? zero. Steamworks with Valve games like PS3? very likely
14. most likey
15. uh...... no idea
16. possible
17. it could happen, I guess
18. I personally doubt it, but it could happen
19. possible, I guess?
20. That'll definitely be the case for digital, but no idea for retail.

 

[wsippel]

What is the likelihood of:

1. The Wii U controller screen being 3D like the 3DS? - 0%
2. Having a digital TV tuner in the controller? - 0%
3. Having TV remote/media center controller function? - 10%
4. Having a Wii remote+ and wireless nunchuk packed in? - 2%
5. A more robust achievement system along the lines of the 3DS?
6. Augmented reality similar to Johnny Lee's tech demos?
7. Multiple colors at launch? - 10%
8. Angry Birds with Nintendo property? - 0%
9. Excite Trucks 3? - 0%
10. Four Swords online?
11. Animal Crossing online with integrated achievements, weather, trailers, etc. like Playstation Home. - 0%
12. Using 3DS systems with Wii U like GBAs were used with GCN for Four Swords, but wireless (and online)?
13. Steam? - 0%, Steamworks is probably a given though
14. Transfer of Wii VC titles? - 90%
15. A new Balance Board with vibration and bioelectrical impedance analysis sensors for body (fat) composition? - 0%
16. Vitality sensor used somehow? - 10%
17. Changing color slot illumination? - 0%
18. Being able to log into your Wii U account at a friends house and have full access to your digital downloads? - 90%
19. Achievements tied to Club Nintendo?
20. Full game installs with code from purchase (digital or disc) making used games useless without an unused code. - 0%

No idea about the points not answered.

 

[EatChildren]

What is the likelihood of:

1. The Wii U controller screen being 3D like the 3DS? [
2. Having a digital TV tuner in the controller?
3. Having TV remote/media center controller function?
4. Having a Wii remote+ and wireless nunchuk packed in?
5. A more robust achievement system along the lines of the 3DS?
6. Augmented reality similar to Johnny Lee's tech demos?
7. Multiple colors at launch
8. Angry Birds with Nintendo property?
9. Excite Trucks 3?
10. Four Swords online?
11. Animal Crossing online with integrated achievements, weather, trailers, etc. like Playstation Home.
12. Using 3DS systems with Wii U like GBAs were used with GCN for Four Swords, but wireless (and online)?
13. Steam?
14. Transfer of Wii VC titles?
15. A new Balance Board with vibration and bioelectrical impedance analysis sensors for body (fat) composition?
16. Vitality sensor used somehow?
17. Changing color slot illumination?
18. Being able to log into your Wii U account at a friends house and have full access to your digital downloads?
19. Achievements tied to Club Nintendo?
20. Full game installs with code from purchase (digital or disc) making used games useless without an unused code.

1. Highly unlikely.
2. In the controller? Unlikely.
3. Unlikely.
4. Maybe. Optional SKU more likely.
5. Possibly.
6. Depends on devs, mostly unlikely.
7. Unlikely.
8. Probably.
9. Highly unlikely.
10. Unlikely.
11. Unlikely. AC Wii U will use online heavily, just nothing like Home (and thank fuck for that).
12. Probably. 3DS + Wii U connectivity is very likely.
13. Unlikely.
14. Maybe.
15. Unlikely. I don't think we'll see much new with the balance board.
16. It will make a come back eventually.
17. Unlikely.
18. Unlikely if Nintendo continue their current policy.
19. Maybe.
20. Online passes will be used, because EA has a hard on for them, and other devs will follow suit.

 

[BlackJace]

If they cost nearly $400 dollars, why not? If you don't have the funds up front, like many people, you'll be paying credit anyways.

I'm not sure I understand how this works... Do you pay indefinitely to own the console after the initial $99 or is it like a computer or car where you pay monthly instalments until it is payed off?

The system doesn't "work" if you fail to pay the subscription, so I guess its a lot like XBL. I think a lot of middle class folk would hate to have another bill on top of the pile that they already have.

And that doesn't even include the $60+ games and the rumors of anti-used games.

Microsoft will get the revenue one way or another.

 

[Dreamwriter]

If they cost nearly $400 dollars, why not? If you don't have the funds up front, like many people, you'll be paying credit anyways.

I'm not sure I understand how this works... Do you pay indefinitely to own the console after the initial $99 or is it like a computer or car where you pay monthly instalments until it is payed off?

How it works is, you buy the console at a discount, and in return sign a contract stating you will pay a monthly fee for a service for at least two years. The console at that point is considered paid off completely - it isn't credit or a loan, nobody will try to collect the console if you stop paying. But if you do stop paying for the device before the contract is up, you must pay an early termination fee, which will cover the true cost of the console plus a huge fee.

In this case, the monthly service is for Xbox Live Gold, if you want to keep all it's benefits then yes you keep paying indefinitely after the two years is up. Although by then I'd expect MS would have a new console you could buy for cheap with another 2 year contract...

 

[-Pyromaniac-]

Can't you already do that at BestBuy? Not sure whether or not they still do it but I remember you could buy on credit and pay it back in instalments. Don't think that did anything at all for them.

 

[Luigison]

6. Who?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jd3-eiid-Uw
http://www.ted.com/talks/johnny_lee_demos_wii_remote_hacks.html

 

[Luigison]

2. Having a digital TV tuner in the controller? Almost definitely considering footage we've seen already showing such.
3. Having TV remote/media center controller function? See above, but yes.

6. Augmented reality similar to Johnny Lee's tech demos? Not likely in the sense you're thinking, since it requires a camera on the back. Unless a 2nd camera is a new secret feature. But maybe

2 and 3. What footage?

6. No extra camera on the controller is needed. Just LEDs and a Wiimote placed above/below the TV. OR the camera on the front could have eye tracking or use glasses with LEDs.